Your Guide to the Most Beautiful Vineyards in Crete
Discover Crete’s Most Picturesque Wineries
The most beautiful vineyards in Crete range from small, family-owned wineries tucked away against a mountain backdrop to sprawling estates with modern decor and rows of vines stretching as far as the eye can see. Part of the adventure is discovering them hidden along narrow tracks lined with olive trees and dusty gravel paths winding up hillsides.
The vineyards on this idyllic island enjoy close ties with the arts. As well as enjoying exceptional scenery and traditional food with your Cretan wine, listen to the enchanting voices of local musicians and admire stunning artwork. Read on to explore the picturesque places where you can sample some of this Greek island’s finest wines.
1. Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room
A rural estate with distant peaks
Good for: Photo, Food
Less than 30 minutes’ drive from the bustling port of Heraklion, Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room is an oasis of tranquility in the Cretan countryside. This family-owned business is known for the single-variety wines it produces from rare, indigenous grapes. But it’s not just the delicious wine that will amaze you. The scenery is nothing short of idyllic.
Book the Vineyard Picnic Experience to enjoy a fascinating tour. Then, sit out in the vineyard and indulge in a picnic basket of traditional Cretan delicacies and 4 different Lyrarakis wines. Take in an incredible landscape of lush green vines against the majestic backdrop of the Lasithi Plateau.
Location: Alagni, Arkalochori, 70300, Alagni, Heraklion, Crete 703 00, Greece
Open: Daily from 11.30 am to 6.30 pm
Phone: +30 69 8105 0681
Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room
2. Klados Winery
A family-run, boutique winery
Good for: Couples, Photo
Between the traditional fishing villages and beach towns of Crete’s northern coast, Klados Winery awaits. Heading down the long, unpaved road to the estate, you’re surrounded by lush vegetation in all directions, and it’s hard to imagine you’re so close to the sea.
The vast, symmetrical rows of vines are a joy to discover in this winery. After a tour, enjoy a wine-tasting session under the leafy pergola and take in amazing vistas over the surrounding vineyards. Be sure to try the signature Blackbird wine, a refined, dry rosé. The winery is less than 8 km from pretty Geropotamus Beach, head there to round off your day with an exquisite sunset view on the beach.
Location: Panormos in Rethymno 740 57, Greece
Open: April: Monday–Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm (closed on Sundays). May–October: Monday–Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm (closed on Sundays). November–March: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +30 69 7365 4840
Klados Winery
3. Winery Stilianou
Breathtaking views in a fifth-generation vineyard
Good for: Photo, Food
Since 1922, Winery Stilianou has been producing traditional wines using time-honored methods. You’ll love the rustic vibe of this estate, and its compact size means it’s an excellent choice for those who don’t want to walk too far on vineyard visits.
The winery is known for its organic, extra virgin olive oil, as well as its crisp wines. You can sample both, paired with a cheese platter or handmade pies, while sitting under the shade of an olive tree. Take in panoramic views over the vineyards and olive groves, enjoying the peaceful scenery and fine produce. Before leaving, check out the quaint boutique and pick up a bottle of wine or olive oil, or maybe even an antiques piece.
Location: Kounavi 701 00, Greece
Open: Daily from 11 am to 7 pm
Phone: +30 69 3643 0368
Winery Stilianou
4. Digenakis winery
An intoxicating blend of fine wine and the arts
Good for: Couples, Food
Located in the heart of Crete’s largest vineyard region, Digenakis Winery sets itself apart with its modern estate. The minimalist decor in the main building focuses on clean lines and soft lighting, and you’ll even find an art gallery on the upper level. Try to attend one of the classical concerts held at the winery. They’re incredibly popular with locals and visitors alike.
The floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining area overlook the surrounding vineyards, making this a wonderful place to visit in fall. As the days turn cooler and the vine leaves start to change color, the landscape is stunning. Choose the wine tasting with brunch package, and enjoy a relaxing blend of fine wines, delicious food, and beautiful scenery.
Location: Epar.Od. Kallonis Gdochia, Arkalochori 701 00, Greece
Open: Monday–Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 10.30 am to 3.30 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +30 28 1023 3999
Digenakis winery
5. Silva Daskalaki Winery
Award-winning estate on the outskirts of Siva
Good for: Photo, History
For those interested in organic farming, history, and oenology, Silva Daskalaki Winery is an unmissable estate. This prize-winning winery focuses on biodynamic farming, and you can delve into the intriguing world of moon phases and a holistic approach to wine-making during your tour.
The vineyards are a picturesque maze, sprawling around the estate and across the neighboring hilltops. But one of the most photogenic things to capture is the row of amphorae, containing wines that are fermented without added sulfites. These impressive urns are a throwback to winemaking production in Crete around 4,000 years ago. Try a glass of Vorinos dry, white wine with feta cheese for an unforgettable pairing, and check out the exquisite bottle, too.
Location: Siva of the Municipality of Paliani, Siva 714 09, Greece
Open: Monday–Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +30 28 1079 2021
Silva Daskalaki Winery
6. Titakis Winery
Awe-inspiring scenery and frescos
Good for: Photo, Food
Titakis Winery will delight you with its innovative approach to wine tours. Views from the building extend far over the hilly Peza region, with its lush olive groves and vines, but you’re treated to an intimate vineyard garden that is cultivated specifically for tours. See indigenous grape varieties, including Vidiano and Vilana, up close on the vines, and enjoy the open-air exhibitions, including a reconstructed Minoan wine press.
As you explore the maze of corridors inside, containing over 70 vast, concrete tanks, prepare to be amazed at the vibrant frescos lining the walls. If you’re a vegetarian, don’t hesitate to ask for a non-meat selection of food pairings in your wine-tasting session.
Location: Κounavi 701 00, Greece
Open: Monday–Friday from 8 am to 3 pm, Saturday upon request (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +30 28 1074 3630
Titakis Winery
7. Manousakis Winery
Prize-winning wine and a Greek taverna feel
Good for: Photo, Food
Nestled in the foothills of the Lefka Ori, in western Crete, Manousakis Winery has a story to tell. Combine the history of a father-and-daughter team moving back to their homeland with organic vineyards, and you’ve got a recipe for one of the most beautiful wineries on the island. The tour is educational and emotional, especially when you learn the origin of the winery’s ‘Nostos’ label. But it’s the tasting sessions that steal the show.
Sit on the terrace, under the olive trees and vine-wrapped pergolas, and admire the authentic stone buildings, overlooking orange groves and far-reaching vineyards. You’ll be charmed by the brightly colored tablecloths and full restaurant menu. Enjoy high-quality wine paired with soutzoukakia beef meatballs and sweet baklava.
Location: Vatolakkos 730 05, Chania, Greece
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +30 28 2107 8787
Manousakis Winery
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